Scotland is politically the most independent region in the United Kingdom and most known as the birthplace of the highland games. Flying is the most convenient way to get to this part of the United Kingdom and finding cheap ways to get to Scotland is easy. You, however, need to be flexible and know how to find the best deals. Knowing where in Scotland to fly, when to travel and where to book your flights, can make a big difference of how much you pay for your flights.

Where To Fly

When looking for cheap flights to Scotland, it is worth comparing different airports. Edinburgh and Glasgow are the two most-often visited cities in Scotland, so flying into either one is more affective. Several big European cities offer direct flights to both Edinburgh and Glasgow. In addition, Glasgow is also a destination for many direct flights from North America. Flights for these cities are also more expensive. To save money, try to catch a flight to either of the two smaller airports in Aberdeen and Inverness. Airports in these regions have flights from few European cities and from many of the airports around United Kingdom. If you already have a layover in either London or Dublin, finding a flight to Aberdeen or Inverness is more convenient. You can also hop on a train, or rent a car, to get somewhere else in Scotland.

When To Travel

The season or month you plan to travel can also be a factor of how much you pay for your flights. Flights are often cheaper when schools are in session, so avoid booking your flights from June to September when ticket prices can vary between $700 and $800. Instead, plan for May or October when ticket prices can vary between $400 and $600. If you need to travel during the more expensive summer months, book your flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and be flexible with the departure and arrival times. Arriving early in the morning and leaving late at night can be cheaper than traveling during the day. In addition, avoid traveling right before or after big events or festivals, such as Whiskey Fringe, or British holidays, including many bank holidays on several Mondays in a year. If you want to attend a certain event, arrive at least couple of days before it starts and leave couple of days after it is over.

Where To Book

Several Web sites, such as studentuniverse.com and statravel.com, offer flights with specific discounts only available for students or young adults under 26. You will, however, need an .edu-ending e-mail address to use studentuniverse.com. In addition, you need to purchase a ISIC card with your ticket. The ISIC card, however, can be used to get discounts in accommodation, tours, sights and many other things in almost every part of the world, including Scotland. Cheap tickets through studentuniverse.com and statravel.com are limited, so book as early as possible. In addition, studentuniverse.com offers cheap tickets to teachers of all ages.

If you are not a student and are over 26, you can still find cheap tickets. Try Web sites such as kayak.com to search multiple airlines and web engines for cheap tickets all at once. If you are flying from Europe or any part of the United Kingdom, check Ryanair and other discount airlines flying to Scotland. You possibly might find tickets as low as $2 without taxes included.

About the Author

Eija Rissanen is a freelance journalist living in Hawaii. She has a journalism and environmental studies degree from Hawaii Pacific University. Her articles have been published in Kalamalama, the student newspaper of Hawaii Pacific University, and some other environmental and travel publications and Web sites in Europe and the United States.

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